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CHAP. 52.—THE PLANTS OF THE TROGLODYTIC SEA; THE HAIR OF
ISIS: THE CHARITO-BLEPHARON.

Juba relates, that about the islands of the Troglodytæ
there is a certain shrub found out at sea, which is known as
the "air of Isis:"1 he says that it bears a strong resemblance to coral, is destitute of leaves, and if cut will change
its colour, becoming quite black and hard, and so brittle as to
break if it falls. He speaks also of another marine plant, to
which he gives the name of "Charito-blepharon,"2 and which,
he says, is particularly efficacious in love-charms.3 Bracelets4 and necklaces are made of it. He says also that it is sensible5 when it is about to be taken, and that it turns as hard
as horn, so hard, indeed, as to blunt the edge of iron. If, on
the other hand, it is cut before it is sensible of the danger, it is
immediately transformed to stone.

SUMMARY.—Remarkable facts, narratives, and observations,
four hundred and sixty-eight.

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